English Grammar Workbook For Dummies, with Online Practice, 3rd Edition

Chapter 20

Dealing with Grammar Demons

IN THIS CHAPTER

Avoiding double negatives

Distinguishing between similar words

Dealing with difficult verbs

Eliminating nonstandard words and expressions from your writing

In folk tales and myths, demons are supernatural creatures that cause trouble everywhere they go. Grammar has demons, too, and there’s nothing supernatural about them. In fact, grammar demons are the mistakes that writers fall into naturally — and avoid easily with just a little practice. In this chapter, you sharpen your demon-slaying skills.

Dropping Double Negatives

In some languages, the more negatives you pile into a sentence, the more strongly you’re saying no. In English, though, two negative words make a positive statement. For example, “Henry did not want no vegetables” means that Henry wanted some vegetables (perhaps just not the one that was on his plate). Unless you’re trying to say something positive, steer clear of these double negatives, presented here with examples:

• WRONG: Lucette cannot help but dance when the salsa band plays. (not and but = negatives) ...